Download File

Sociology
The Sociological Point
of View
Chapter 1: Section 1
Sociology
Objectives:
• Describe what sociology is and explain
what it means to have a sociological
imagination.
• Explain how sociology is similar to
and different from other social
sciences.
Few important definitions:
• Sociology:
– Social science that studies human society and social
behavior.
• Social sciences:
– Disciplines that study human social behavior or
institutions and functions of human society in a
scientific manner.
• Social interaction:
– How people react to one another and influence each
other’s behavior.
Before we begin…
After reading the official definition of
sociology… WHY do you think sociology
is important??
The science that studies human society
and social behavior.
SOCIAL...OLOGY
• Sociologists focus on the group rather
than individuals by examining social
phenomena:
– Observable facts or events that involve
human society.
The Sociological Perspective:
• A viewing of the behavior of groups in a
systematic way.
• Allows you to see beyond your own day-today life by viewing the world through other’s
eyes.
• Can look beyond commonly
held beliefs to the hidden meanings
behind human actions.
What does it mean to have a
sociological imagination???
Sociological
Imagination:
Ability to see the connection between the
larger world and our personal lives.
(Term developed by C. Wright Mills)
Sociological Imagination
Example:
How might a sociologist view the
interconnection of this closed factory and
homeless person?
Quick Activity:
Complete on note-taking guide
Create your OWN example of sociological
imagination. (Quick sketch)
Few More Terms:
• Anthropology:
– The comparative study of past and present
cultures.
• Psychology:
– Science that deals with the behavior and
thinking of organisms.
– Includes personality, perception, motivation,
and learning.
– Social Psychology:
• The study of how the social environment affects an
individual’s behavior and personality.
• Economics:
– Study of the choices people make in an effort
to satisfy their needs and wants.
– The processes of which goods and services
are produced, distributed, and consumed.
• Political Science:
– Study of the organization and operation of
governments.
• History:
– Study of past events.
Comparing Sociology and other
Social Sciences:
• Similar:
– Examines the relations between society and
culture.
• Different:
– Sociology focuses on groups rather than
individuals.
What might a sociologist find interesting about this
image? How might this view differ from other social
scientists?
What would be your concern?
•
You will be assigned a social science and topic. Develop at least 3 questions that
your discipline would address according to your topic.
GROUP #1:
• Crime:
– Sociology
– History
GROUP #2:
• Crime:
– Psychology
– Economics
GROUP #3:
• Family Relationships:
– Sociology
– Anthropology
GROUP #4:
•
Family Relationships:
– Psychology
– Economics
GROUP #5:
• Education:
– Sociology
– History
– Political Science/Gov’t